Sew Let’s QAL – Block 9 In Stitches!

I am”in stitches” and so pleased to be the designer of this month’s block – In Stitches. We have had so many gorgeous blocks and I hope you enjoy making mine. It is hard to believe we are at block 9. I have missed hosting these last few weeks but it was good timing for a break as I had more schedule interruptions.

I wanted to represent stitches so I made a mini quilt. There are two ways to make the block included in the pattern, so, please read through the entire pattern before you make your choice. The template pages are included, along with a full set of the alphabet, in case you want to write something else on your block.

Hint 1: Starch!Now, we have really gotten you into shape with the small piecing and well, this block builds on those skills. The hints we have used before help – but especially starching. My go to starch is Mary Ellen’s Best Press Unscented*. We don’t use many fragrances in our house due to allergies, so this works perfectly. My technique is to WET that piece of fabric and let it air dry a bit or dry completely. Either way you will get a nice stiff piece of fabric that won’t shift quite as much for you.

Hint #2: Put pieces across block to check size (if piecing your stitches).Even with starch, this can be a little stretchy and you may be able to remove one or two of the last patches. Keep those in case you need them for the longer sides.

Hint #3: For Fusing (letters & stitches)I sometimes find it easier to give a little fuse with the tip of my iron before the final securing of the pieces so they don’t move. Also, I used a ruler to help line up the stitches, 1/4″ from seam and 1/4″ apart. Finally, These pieces are small so having a tweezer can help move them (especially on a humid day).

Hint #4: Place template page under blockThis will help you place & keep your pieces where they belong. Even on an ironing board I can see through my background. I do urge you use a release or teflon sheet* when first pressing to keep from getting on your iron. Once you have done that you may want to make sure pieces are attached but the glue should be all facing the background so you can secure any looser pieces.

Hint #5: Use a new needleI used a new, smaller 75/11 needle and clear thread (Superior MonoPoly or YLI Invisible are my go to threads).

You should check out the other hosts for this block and segment. They will have fabulous ideas. We are at the end of segment 2 so at the bottom you will find the linky for your completed blocks (4 this segment).

Here is the Linky Party!!

To be eligible to win a segment prize, you need to make all of the blocks from that segment. You just need one picture with the last 4 blocks finished to enter. Share a photo or photos of your blocks (in a single post) to be entered. Entries will be open from 12:00 am July 2 to 11:59 pm July 15, 2019 (Eastern time). There are three places you can share your blocks to be entered in the drawing:

Hi Kathleen! What a cute block and oh so fitting. Great tips you shared as well. I especially love using the ruler to make sure all those dashes line up nicely. Those really push the piece over the cuteness edge for me. ~smile~ Roseanne

Thank you for a challenging and inspiring block. I have yet to sew any of the blocks, pleading “too busy with other sewing jobs,” but just got inspired to give this a try. I think I’ll work backwards from the last block.

Thanks, Jane! I am thrilled to hear this is inspiring you!!! Working backwards is an awesome approach – like when the kindergartners do backwards days. Hope you do it and have some fun. I often do little pieces at time (cut – then piece – then assemble) and then its done before I even scheduled it!

Wow, I love this block! So versatile! The timing of this QAL hadn’t been good for me so I’ve not been sewing along (first one I’ve missed from partners in design!) but I’m saving this block for later for sure!!!! Thanks for a great design!

This is a really cute block, Kathleen. I like the font you used for the letters. Do you find the heavy starching interferes at all with the ability of the fusible to really hold the pieces? Thanks for a great design.